Kathleen M. Caruana

January 4, 1949 - January 31, 2021

Kathleen M. Caruana, 72, of Rockford died peacefully in her sleep on January 31, 2021. Born January 4, 1949 in Joliet, daughter of James and Jean (Fargo) Murphy. Graduate of St. Francis Academy of Joliet. Attended Western Illinois University. Kathy met her loving husband, Joe while employed as an X-Ray Technician in Joliet. United in marriage to Joseph Caruana on July 5, 1969 in Joliet. Survived by her husband, Joe; children, James “Jay” Caruana of Rockford, Mark (Katie) Caruana of Machesney Park, Amy (Matt Makeever) Caruana of Rockford; brother, Jim (Renee) Murphy of Joliet; father-in-law, Sam Caruana of Rockford; sister-in-law, Vera (Bill) Levine; brother-in-law, Dan (Priscilla) Caruana; nephews, Jeffery Levine, Michael Levine, Ben (Michele) Caruana, Spencer (Tara Pearce) Caruana; great-nephew Everett “Rhett” Caruana and the extended Caruana family; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; a huge circle of loving friends near and far and special dog, Chelsea. Preceded in death by her parents, mother-in-law, Kathryn Caruana, and numerous treasured family dogs over her lifetime. Kathy was the co-owner of O’Fallon’s Fine Flowers, a business she started 19 years ago, with her daughter Amy. Her warm personality and kindness welcomed customers. Kathy was an amazing wife and mom, she was known to say that she “loved her boys,” referring to the extended group of kids and young adults that could be found in her warm, welcoming and loving home. She was a great cook and enjoyed feeding friends and family and talented gardener, creating beautiful spaces in her yard. She was a lifelong dog lover, loving on both her own dogs, and her grand dogs throughout the years. At Kathy’s request, her body was donated to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois for the advancement of science. A Celebration of Kathy’s life and legacy will be held in the future, due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family, share a message of condolence at www.GraceFH.com.